“As part of this deal, my department has approved the transfer of MTS’s spectrum licences to Bell and Xplornet Communications Inc. Bell has committed to spending $1 billion over the next five years to expand wired and wireless broadband networks in Manitoba.

“Xplornet, meanwhile, has announced it will expand into mobile wireless service for the first time.

“The Government of Canada supports more competition, which means more choices at affordable prices for consumers. Protecting middle-class Canadians against the rising cost of cellphone bills is a priority of this government. More competition in the market will play a key role.